Best West End shows in London for kids - seen, approved and reviewed
- Tracy Tristram
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
The West End Shows and Musicals We’ve Seen (and Absolutely Loved!)
London theatre is honestly one of our favourite family days — or nights — out. There’s something magical about sitting in a dark theatre, snacks in hand, waiting for the curtain to rise.
Over the years we’ve seen a LOT of West End shows (research… obviously 😄), but these are the ones we genuinely loved and would happily recommend. Every show listed here is one we’ve seen ourselves, so these are real, honest thoughts — not just a round-up pulled from the internet.
So, take a seat, grab some popcorn and read our guide to some of the best West End shows in London right now…
🎭 The Phantom of the Opera
A true West End classic and still every bit as dramatic and goosebump-inducing as you’d hope. The music is iconic, the staging feels wonderfully old-school theatrical, and that chandelier moment? Not a fan of opera? Neither are we - but this is amazing nonetheless.
Good for: Older kids, teens and adults who love big drama and stunning music.
Theatre details:📍 His Majesty’s Theatre⏱ Approx. 2 hrs 30 mins (including interval)
🇫🇷 Les Misérables
Big emotions, huge songs and serious theatre magic. It’s powerful, moving and unforgettable — definitely one that stays with you long after you leave. We've seen it four times, and even the hard to please London for Kidz teens love it.
Good for: Older children and teens who can follow a more complex story.
Theatre details:📍 Sondheim Theatre⏱ Approx. 2 hrs 50 mins
👑 Six
Fast, funny and totally unique. History class meets pop concert — and it WORKS. The energy is amazing, the songs are catchy, and the whole show feels fresh and modern. It's also one of the shortest shows in the West End so perfect for fidget pants!
Good for: Tweens, teens and adults.
Theatre details:📍 Vaudeville Theatre⏱ Approx. 80 mins (no interval)
👻 Paranormal Activity (Limited Run)
This one’s short, sharp and seriously atmospheric. Expect tension, jumpy moments and lots of audience reactions — not your typical West End show and recommended for 15 years and older. Some PROPER poo your pants moments! Read our review here.
Good for: Older teens and adults who enjoy thrills.
Theatre details:📍 Ambassadors Theatre⏱ Limited short run
🪄 Harry Potter & the Cursed Child
The stage effects are jaw-dropping and genuinely make you wonder how did they do that? It’s currently staged in two parts — and with the show being reimagined later this year, it’s the last chance to experience it in its original format. We saw and loved it in its current format, so read our review here.
Good for: Harry Potter fans and older kids. If your kids are okay with the movies, they'll be okay with this, age-wise.
Theatre details:📍 Palace Theatre⏱ Two-part performance (currently)
🚗 Back to the Future
Pure fun. Big effects, nostalgia and lots of laughs — it’s a crowd-pleaser that works brilliantly for families. Timeless and feel-good.
Good for: Kids, teens and parents who grew up with the film.
Theatre details:📍 Adelphi Theatre⏱ Approx. 2 hrs 40 mins
🧙 Wicked
The story behind the witches of Oz is clever, funny and emotional, with HUGE songs and incredible staging. Thoroughly enjoyable.
Good for: Families and older children.
Theatre details:📍 Apollo Victoria Theatre⏱ Approx. 2 hrs 45 mins
😇 The Book of Mormon
Absolutely hilarious — but definitely date night only. This is not one for kids, no matter how musical they are! Expect bold humour and lots of laughs - and if you're easily offended this is NOT for you.
Good for: Adults only.
Theatre details:📍 Prince of Wales Theatre⏱ Approx. 2 hrs 30 mins
💃 Moulin Rouge! The Musical
High-energy, visually stunning and packed with well-known songs. It’s glamorous, dramatic and visually stunning — but best suited to older kids and teens, and you'll definitely want to see it again and again.
Good for: Older teens and adults.
Theatre details:📍 Piccadilly Theatre⏱ Approx. 2 hrs 45 mins
🦁 The Lion King
A true family favourite and honestly one of the most visually breathtaking shows in London. The opening alone is worth the ticket, and it's just sooo darn clever you cannot fail to be wowed.
Good for: Kids and families (a great first theatre experience).
Theatre details:📍 Lyceum Theatre⏱ Approx. 2 hrs 30 mins
📚 Matilda The Musical
Funny, clever and packed with energy. It’s quirky, fast-paced and just as enjoyable for adults as it is for kids.
Good for: Families, school-age children and anyone who loves Roald Dahl.
Theatre details:📍 Cambridge Theatre⏱ Approx. 2 hrs 35 mins
🎟 Our Top Tip for London Theatre
Choose the show that fits your child’s personality — some love big spectacle, others prefer comedy or music. The good news? You honestly can’t go wrong with any of these.
And remember — these are all shows we’ve genuinely seen and loved ourselves, so we’re only recommending what we’d happily book again.
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